Patient centered care means that the nurses devise and implement a plan so that the patients can take care of themselves. It is a collaborative effort that involves nurses, patients and their families so that shared decision making is possible. The present age of technology has made it considerably easier to implement and control these objectives. Nurses do not have to be at the side of patients 24/7 and can use telehealth apps and other devices to deliver patient centered care.
The Importance of a Patient Centered Care Model
As technology in the medical profession has evolved, it has reduced the activities of nurses. Now that workflows are reduced and active decision making is possible, patients refuse to be passive participants in the healthcare system. They can be given information about healthy lifestyles, nutrition and well-being as well as ways to avoid or manage illnesses.
Practicing patient centered care means that the healthcare professionals have to anticipate the fear and anxiety that patients will experience when receiving care. They have to take responsibility for comforting and reassuring patients to ensure that patients and their families get the best outcomes.
Why is it a Paradigm Shift?
Patient based care is a paradigm shift because care is collaborative and considers the social, emotional and financial aspects of a patient’s situation. It allows the patient to be in control regarding decisions about their own treatment and care. The role of the nurse is to inform, advise and support, but the patient makes the ultimate decision about the course of action they want to take.
Patients need to understand the procedures and treatments they will undergo in the process of treatment. The role of nurses is to make them as comfortable and knowledgeable as possible, especially when treating them for a complicated injury or painful illness.
Conclusion
The patient care model has resulted in a paradigm shift for nurses, as they have transitioned to an advisory role. There is evidence that the patient based care model has better outcomes for patients who can take care of themselves. It saves the cost of hospital admissions and gives patients the autonomy to make their own decisions.
References
https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/expert-insights/why-patientcentered-care-is-so-important